Last evening, I went to the Portland Phoenix site looking for the contestants of its annual music award ceremony, when I noticed a column by Ryan Stewart. I'm a bit ignorant to the online version of the Phoenix, but apparently he reports the Sporting Eye. In his column, he writes that Sean McDonough is no longer the play-by-play man for the Friday night Red Sox games.

This is a "Web exclusive?" Sean McDonough was not tendered a contract last November. Five months ago. Either the article has been there since November or it's new, old news.

In fact, in December Don Orsillo was given an extension by NESN along with former Mainer Tom Caron.

This is why one should not get his sports news from an entertainment magazine.

To his credit, Mr Stewart at least gave Sean McDonough his due. I, too, miss McDonough. I have enjoyed listening to his voice these many years, but all things must pass.

Speaking of broadcasters...

On Monday, NESN announced its minor league broadcast schedule. As a result, Tom Caron or Eric Frede will cover the Portland Sea Dogs game on Saturday.

No offense to Mr. Frede, but I'd like to see Tom Caron back in Portland. He makes all of us here in Maine proud. Being from Maine he exhibits that special charm that puts the players and managers at ease to get the good interview. It's hard to believe he's been at NESN nine years.

I remember when NESN was nothing. He was there in the A.M. giving updates on Sports Digest, which repeated itself every half hour. The organization and Caron have both come a long way. How times have changed. Now he wears a World Series ring. Nice.

There is quite a bit happening in Hadlock this weekend as the Sea Dogs will also hold their annual Mother's Day 5K.

But that is enough about our loveable minor leaguers.

Let's concentrate a little on the Bigs. As I write the Sox are about to bat in Detroit. The 1 p.m. start is early allowing the team some travel time and sleep before returning home to host the revamped Mariners.

Bronson Arroyo gets the start today. He has won nine straight decisions dating back to last season. And to think Boston is eventually going to move him to the pen. Wow.

Not that the pen wouldn't be helped by his presence. Hopefully by the time ny cable is installed in my new place, the pen will have improved. Keith Foulke's outing last night is a good sign.

Don't look now but if Tampa Bay beats New York today the two teams would be tied for last. The Boss must be steaming.

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